EXPLORE YOUR POTENTIAL AT ARL

Learning a new profession once you've crafted your career can be daunting to many, from going back to a classroom, reading books, extra hours revising or undertaking an exam; however, for Michael Maddox, it was an opportunity to broaden his horizons and learn something new.

After becoming aware of an internal advert in 2021, inviting applicants to join the British Transport Police (BTP) as a Special Police Constable (SPC) through the scheme for ARL employees, Michael Maddox saw this as an opportunity to challenge himself, learn new skills as well as giving something back to the industry he works in.

BTP SPCs have to commit to a minimum of 16 hours per month, and ARL support release for eight of these through the scheme with the rest of them undertaken in their own time.

Speaking on why he decided to apply, Michael said "I have seen the work the BTP do, from my first railway job as a train guard to working with them on-site at operational incidents and accident responses over my time in operations management.

"I had great support from my line manager and Graham Naughton, our security lead, throughout the application process and my training."

The training is intensive, including understanding the fundamental principles of law, codes of ethics, decision-making principles and how these are applied in day-to-day police work, also, how BTP works with its industry partners to ensure a safer railway.

These skills are then put into practice in scenario exercises, and, in addition, there are theory tests during the course to demonstrate underpinning knowledge. There is also a considerable element of off-course learning at home to supplement the classroom sessions.

Training was conducted over six months at two BTP training centres in London; Michael recently 'attested', which marks the completion of the first stage, with the support from his training team. 

"Despite at first having doubts about the challenges of taking on this new role, with the help of the trainers, the structured training programme, and the fact that all course students supported each other, meant we all felt a sense of achievement when it came to our attestation day."

In the next phase of the programme, Michael joins the base location, where he will work as an SPC under the supervision of a local Sergeant. Training will involve further learning in an operational environment and being deployed with experienced officers.

"If any other colleagues are considering applying for the ARL BTP scheme, I highly recommend it based on my experiences so far.

Want to join the scheme? Click here for more details. 

The introduction of BTP SPCs is just one part of a range of measures to help keep our colleagues and customers safe on the London Overground network.

Remember, reporting incidences accurately and correctly will aid our success in addressing antisocial behaviour and criminality on our railway. For more information visit the LO-down security page and keep reading Broadcast newsletter which is shared on email.